I’m a baby boomer that believes in embracing life to its fullest. Learning is my passion, curiosity an addiction and play a must.

Math was always my favorite subject. As a sophomore in high school, I solved an assigned 27-step geometry proof in 3 steps and had all the teachers scratching their heads.  It was decided the class wouldn’t keep up with me and that I should work independently.

So how did I end up studying journalism and spending 30 years in the world of newspapers?  It was the lure of deadlines, I’m sure. The role of watchdog was important, but just as critical to me were the stories of people, real people.  

I love working with people.  They give me energy.  They challenge me, make me think.  They make me laugh, and sometimes cry.  Life and success become mutual experiences.

            I believe in mixing work and play whenever possible. Whether learning through games, team meetings complete with squirt guns and Nerf balls, or some comic relief during tough times, play is the equalizer of our work existence.

To celebrate the switching of a p.m. paper to a.m. — people’s lives were being turned upside down –morning was observed with a pajama party, egg hunt, breakfast cooked by management and donut bowling. This, of course, came after the appropriate change process.

When the building was flooded, and repairs to one area were a few weeks off, a makeshift miniature golf course was created to allow for some relief from the stressful situation.

When a community’s pride was suffering, a three-prong city-wide campaign was developed to open eyes to all the positive happenings, to recognize the everyday heroes improving the quality of life, and to rebuild a gathering spot that had faded into yesteryears.  The culminating celebration was a picnic, parade and hero play.

            Ben and Jerry had it right.  When it comes to work, if it’s not fun, why do it? Here’s to not taking ourselves too seriously.

(For additional information on Ancel, see ( http://ancelarygroup.com/Experience.html )